Armed Forces Week: Community sends thanks to area troops

The biggest and longest-running celebration of America's military members is again set for Colorado Springs.

The Military Affairs Council of the Colorado Springs Regional Business Alliance will host the Armed Forces Week Luncheon on Tuesday at The Broadmoor. The luncheon gives community members a chance to thank troops and organizers use it to announce the winners of the Outstanding Enlisted Member of the Year honors in three rank classes.

The luncheon, which draws hundreds of Pikes Peak region military and business leaders, has been held for more than three decades.

"This is our opportunity as a community to recognize and honor the contribution that the enlisted soldiers mean to our military," said Andy Merritt, chief defense industry officer for the business alliance.

Gen. Chuck Jacoby, commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command, will speak at the luncheon. More than 500 business and community leaders are expected to attend.

Businesses will foot the bill so more than 300 enlisted troops can attend and sit alongside community members.

"The focus of our event is about thanking our enlisted men and women, and recognizing the valuable role they play protecting our country," Merritt said.